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Over 100 friers and trade suppliers travelled to Ely Cambridgeshire for the 5th annual Isle of Ely Produce open day.
The event put on by John, Oliver and Claire Boutwood and hosted by Chippy Chat Publishing Editor Austen Dack highlights the journey the potato makes before it hits shops. It is the culmination of their ‘field to frier’ platform which also includes sponsorship of a National Fish and Chip Award.
The day although dedicated to the potato in recent years has taken on the mantle of being a showcase for what’s also best practice in the industry. Three of the best fish and chip shop owners presented during the day from a full AV stage show set up in one of IOE’s potato storage sheds. Our thanks to Papas Fish and Chips, who have not only sent chips to space, but now have purchased the biggest fish and chip restaurant in the UK three times in just over two years! Krispies from Exmouth (our current field to frier champions) gave us a feel of what it takes to run a modern shop, and how they have invested, refurbished and invested in some great general marketing.
Highlight of the day was Kingfisher’s Craig and Nikki who showed us just why they are the best in the UK with benchmark activity in a thrilling keynote speech.
Back to farming our featured farmer this year was Patrick Clabon of HG Bliss Farms. Patrick first presented the general costs of an acre of potatoes to the packed audience together with a general overview of his farm. He then took them to his farm giving them a running commentary as they approached the farm before jumping out to see the potato growing process first hand. Patrick was a natural speaker and the group all complimented him on his fantastic tour.
Other highlights included seeing the new Pukka Pie brand campaign, finding out the history and development plans for Middleton Foods, the revolutionary Vito machine, plus benefits of teaming up with Chippy chat partners Smart, Wrapped and Tyco.
In the evening over 50 people dined and drank into the night in Ely all reflecting on the day itself.
We are already planning next years event. If you would like to attend as a frier or supplier and want details of tickets and/or sponsorship please email austen@chippychat.co.uk
Thanks to this years sponsors which included
KFE
MIDDLETON FOODS
PJ LEE & SONS
PUKKA PIES
FRYMAX
DRYWITE
VITO
TYCO
T QUALITY
WRAPPED INSURANCE
SMART UTILITY
FRIARS PRIDE
HZPC
AHDB
NFFF
BD SIGNS
by Austen Dack
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